AUBURN -FOLSOM
RECREATION PLAN
THE AUBURN -FOLSOM INTERAGENCY TASK FORCE
Fred L. Jones, Chairman
William E. Warne Walter Shannon Robert Pafford
. October 1966 PLANNING S T A F F
STATE OF CALIFORNIA
Department of Parks and Recreation
Stanley Thompson Ronald Cooksy Glen Jackson George. Fogg Marjorie Nowell Holt John Hightower
Department of Water Resources
Guy Fairchild Norman Sturm Sam Scicch·itano
Department of Fish and Game
Jack Fraser Ted Vande Sande
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR Bureau of Reclamation Lloyd Stennett Lawrence Ehrhardt Vaughn Bishop George Medlicott National Park Service Ed Bullard
Solicitor's Office Joe Taylor T A B L E 0 F C O N T E N T S
PREFACE • • • • • • • • • • . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . SUMMARY AND RECOMMENDATIONS • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Iii INTRODUCTION Authorization •••• Purpose of Report .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2' Scope • • • • • • • • • • • . • • • • • • • • • • • • • • 2 Coordination•••••••••••••••••••••• 3 Contract Development •••••••••••••••••• 3 DESCRIPTION OF PROJECT AREA Topography and Geology •••••••••••••••• 4 Vegetative Cover •. ~ ..•.•••••••••••••••• 4 Wt 1 d 1 ife ., .. • · .. . . . ... .,. • • • • • • • • • • • • 4 Climate •••••••. , . ~ • • • • • • • • • • • • 65 Existing Land Use ••••• Access . • • • . • • • and Transportation. . . . . . • . • . • . • . 0 . • . • . • 66 History and Archeology ••• e • 0 f • • e 0 7Fire History •••••••• • e O a O • 0 • 0 0 e e • •8 PROJECT DESCRIPTION The Auburn-Folsom South Unit. • • • • • • • • • • • • • 9 Auburn Dam and Reservoir. • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • JO Fo1som Reservoir and Lake Natoma. . • • • . . • • . • • 13 RECREATION DEMAND Present Recreation Use. • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • 17 Recreation Use with the Auburn-Folsom South Project • • 17 Recreation Facility Deficiencies. • • • • • • • • • • • 20 Current Five-Year Programs. • • • • • • • • • • • • • • 20 T A B L E 0 F C O N T E N T S (cont'd)
PROPOSED RECREATION DEVELOPMENT Folsom Lake State Recreation Area (Lake Natoma and Folsom Reservoir) • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • 30 Lake Natoma • • • • • • • • • • • • • ,. • • • • • • • • 30 Fo1som Lake • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • 30 Auburn Reservoir. • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • 31 Development Costs. • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • 33 Management Plan. • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • 33 NONFEDERAL COST SHARING Repayment Analysis (Separable Costs) .• , •••••• . . 36 Estimated Revenues ••••••••••••••••• . . 40 Operation and Malntenance ••••••••••••• . . 41 Replacement ••••••••••••••••••• , 41 APPENDICES Public Law 89-161 • . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . A-1 Public Law 89-72 •• . . . . . . . . . . Senate Bill 26 ••• . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-6 . . . . . . . . A-13 P R E F A C E
The recreation planning studies outlined in this report have been
prepared by the Auburn-Folsom lnteragency Task Force which was
formed in January of 1966. The potential plans and findings are
based upon preliminary data available to the task force as of
August 1966. The task force has been faced with a unique problem;
that of preparing a report that will assist State executives in
determining the State's position relative to administering recrea­tion
facilities at Auburn Reservoir, as well as preparing a plan
for recreation to be incorporated in a cost-sharing contract which
can be approved by the Secretary of the interior as provided for
in Public Law 89-161.
Folsom Lake State Recreation Area, together with the proposed recreation area at Auburn Reservoir, can supply recreation oppor­tunities for 15,000,000 visitor days of use when developed to optimum capacity. Based upon preliminary data available as of August 1966, the task force determined the approximate area of land needed to accommodate the visitation that will be attracted to the area. It has examined the problem of associating recreatfon facilities with the water surface in a difficult terrain situation and has evolved a concept that may become the prototype for similar developments at future reservoirs in like terrain. The task force has studied the needs for borrow material and suggested solutions least detrimental to the convnunity, but which have a potential for recreation development. It has stressed the location of facilities for both recreation and fish and wildlife enhancement that make the greatest practical use of public lands and take the least amount of private land.
However, there remain to be made a number of important deter­minations which will bear upon the recreational potential of the Auburn-Folsom Reservoir area and upon its operation as a useful addition to the State 1 s recreation resources. There are a number of subjects in question: The role that Placer and El Dorado Counties will play in the development and/or operation of the
recreational aspects of the project; the location and relocation of roads necessary to serve the area; the location of borrow areas for project construction; specific information regarding the
location of land acquisition for project purposes other than
recreation including lands to be purchased for mitigation of wildlife losses; and a number of other questions which remain unanswered at this time. PREFACE (Cont'd)
It is the intent of the task force to re-evaluate the recreation
plan presented herein after these questions have been answered
and, in any event, prior to the initiation of the construction
of recreation facilities at Auburn Reservoir. The re-evaluation
should be done in conjunction with detailing the plan for
recreational development.
The latest information available indicates that Auburn Reservoir will not be completed until 1977, some eleven years from now. The construction of recreation facilities at Auburn will probably not
be initiated until at least 1974. The re-evaluation of the plan will have the added advantage of allowing an updated view of.the State's rapidly changing recreation requirements based upon know­ledge
of these requirements gained through the next few years.
Fewer questions are involved in the proposals for Folsom Reservoir, as the proposals for that reservoir represent an expansion of an existing State Recreation Area and modification of the project area will be minor. Since Lake Natoma is an integral part of Folsom Lake State Recreation Area, al I references in this report to Folsom also include Lake Natoma.
i i S U M M A R Y A N D R E C O M M E N D A T I O N S
Summary
The Auburn-Folsom South Unit of the Federal Central Valley Project
provides for the further development of water in the American River
Basin. This report deals with the recreation potential of Auburn
Reservoir, the central feature of the unit, and with the further
development of Folsom Lake State Recreation Area which is affected
by the construction of the Auburn-Folsom South Unit.
The proposed Auburn Reservoir, while difficult to develop for
recreation because of adverse terrain, can be developed to provide
considerable recreation potential. The operation of Auburn for
purposes of municipal and industrial water supply, irrigation, flood
control and hydroelectric power generation will enhance Folsom
Reservoir by stabilizing th~ water level in that reservoir. Folsom
Reservoir, which by nature of the surrounding terrain is much more
developable than Auburn, represents the greatest potential for
recreation development.
In order for the recreation and fish and wildlife enhancement
potential of the project to be fully realized, it will be necessary
for a nonfederal interest to:
1.
Pay or repay one-half of the separable costs of developing recreation and fish and wildlife enhancement.
2.
Assume the full responsibility for operating and maintaining the area for these purposes.
A plan of recreational development is presented which will satisfy
the basic recreation requirements at the project. This plan
involves acquisition of lands for optimum predicted recreation use and construction of recreation facilities at Auburn and Folsom Reservoirs at an estimated cost of $16,746,600. The State's current
investment in recreation lands and facilities at Folsom Lake State Recreation Area amounts to $5,223,602. These facilities will become a part of the project and credit will be allowed to the State on the
basis of current market value. The balance of the State's share will be repaid by the dedication of user fees.
Sufficient land acquisition is proposed as a part of this project to satisfy the optimum predicted recreation use of 15,000,000 visitor days per year at Auburn and Folsom Lake State Recreation Area. The basic development plan provides for the construction of new recreation facilities to accommodate the predicted recreation visitation through
iii
the first ten years of project operation, taking into account visitors who do not require facilities--sightseers, and other "informal" users of the area.
No facilities were considered for fish and wildlife enhancement. The California Department of Fish and Game and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service are developing an enhancement plan for the project at this time. The relationship of the management of the wildlife mitigation lands to the operation of the recreation project was also not considered.
An analysis of costs and repayment is presented. This analysis indicates that user fees collected at the project will repay the State's share of separable costs of recreation development proposed in the plan.
Recommendations
It is recommended that:
1.
Folsom Lake State Recreation Area be considered as an integral part of the Auburn-Folsom South Unit.
2.
This recreation plan outlined for the project be adopted and that the recreation lands and facilities recommended be provided.
3.
The plan be reviewed and modified, if necessary, prior to the initiation of construction of recrea­Uon faci 1it es.
4.
Provision be made to relocate a11 the existing riding and hiking trails which will be inundated by the construction of Auburn Reservoir.
5.
The State incorporate Auburn Reservoir into the State Park System. This assumes that an equitable contract can be negotiated for recreation project repayment and for operation and maintenance of the recreation facilities.
6.
The land acquisition and facilities development recommended at Folsom Reservoir be provided prior to the completion of the Auburn Reservoir.
iv
INTRODUCTION
Authorization
Public Law 89-161, enacted by the United States Congress in 1965, authorizes the Bureau of Reclamation to construct the Auburn-Folsom South Unit of the Central Valley Project. The legislation contains language which requires nonfederal participation in the recreation and fish and wildlife enhancement features of the unit in order for these purposes to be fully developed as project purposes. Such nonfederal participation includes:
1.
Full responsibility for the operation, mainte­nance and replacement of recreation and/or fish and wildlife enhancement facilities of the project.
2.
Payment or repayment of one-half of the separable capital costs of developing recreation and/or fish and wildlife enhancement facilities as a part of the project.
The fish and wildlife considerations are not dea1t with in depth
in this report since the California Department of Fish and Game is preparing separate comments related specifically to this subject.
The provisions of the Auburn-Folsom South authorization dealing with nonfederal participation are similar to Public Law 89-72, the Federal Water Project Recreation Act. Copies of both Public Law 89-161 and 89-72 are appended to this report.
Following congressional authorization of the Auburn-Folsom South Unit, the Bureau, late in 1965, contacted the State as a possible nonfederal participant in the project. In January 1966, an
interagency task force was formed made up of the directors of the Departments of Parks and Recreation, Water Resources and Fish and Game and the Federal Bureau of Reclamation, Region 2. The task force was charged with developing a recreation plan, analyzing the State's position relative to this project and developing a repayment and operation contract between the State and Federal Government which will provide for the full realization of the recreation, fish and wildlife enhancement features of the proposed project. A staff planning task force, under the chairmanship of Fred L. Jones, Director of the Department of Parks and Recreation, and with representatives of each of the agencies on the parent task force and the National Park Service, was established to compile this report. Purpose of Report
In May of 1963, the State of California reviewed the Bureau of
Reclamation Feasibility Report on the Auburn-Folsom South Unit.
Since that time there have been a number of project modifications
proposed, not the least of which is that promulgated in the
authorizing legislation relating to nonfederal cost sharing.
Following authorization of the project under the criteria of
Public Law 89-161, the Bureau of Reclamation has turned to the
State as a possible nonfederal participant in the recreation and
fish and wildlife enhancement features of the project.
This report has been developed to document the State's position
relative to nonfedera1 participation. This has been accomplished
by:
1.
Thorough review of the Bureau of Reclamation Feasibility Report (House Document 171) dated October 22, 1963, along with the supporting reports of the National Park Service, dated March 1963, and the Fish and Wildlife Service, dated January 1963.
2.
Updating of the estimates of use and/or develop­ment needs based upon more up-to-date information.
3.
Evolution of a recreation plan which will best serve the recreation needs of the State of California.
The plan contains both development and operational needs relating
to the Auburn-Folsom South Unit and will, consequently, serve as
the basis for a possible contract between the State and Federal Government.
Scope
Although the Auburn-Folsom South Unit consists of a series of water conservation and distribution facilities, as described fn a
subsequent section, this report is limited to consideration of the major project feature, Auburn Dam and Reservoir, and its considerable affect upon the recreation opportunities afforded at Folsom Reservoir and Lake Natoma. Study of the recreation opportunity afforded by other project features (Sugar Pine and County Line Reservoirs) has been postponed in deference to the immediate urgency of considering the Auburn Reservoir complex.
The descriptive material outlined in this report applies primarily to the Auburn Dam and Reservoir site--the new feature of the project. Folsom Dam and Reservoir and Nimbus Dam and Lake Natoma, located on
2 the American River below the proposed Auburn project, represent an
existing and major recreational potential which has been partially
developed by the State as Folsom Lake State Recreation Area.
Additional development is necessary and recommended in order to fully
develop this potential as a part of the Auburn-Folsom South Unit.
The details of the fish and wildlife enhancement aspects of the project will be considered in the development of a Reservoir Management Plan.
Coordination
Coordination of the current recreation planning effort has been carried on by several means. The number of agencies involved and the rather tight time schedule has required that most of the coordination be through the use of committees and task forces. The Auburn-Folsom lnteragency Task Force has served as a mechanism for coordinating State and federal interests. Individual contact with the Bi-County Auburn Dam Committee has served to keep the local interests in the project apprised of our plans. The counties of Placer and El Dorado have expressed an active interest in the project and have participated in the planning phases leading to this report. The counties have expressed a further interest in possible recreation operations as subcontractors to the State in connection with the project. The counties and the City of Auburn have jointly employed a consultant to assist them in determining the type of recreation operation most favorable to the local interests. The result of the local studies are not now available for inclusion in this report. However, even though the State may enter into a contract with the Federal Govern­ment as the nonfedera1 participant, it is the State's intent to encourage local participation in the project to the extent feasible.
In order to permit State involvement in the project as the nonfederal participant, legislation was introduced in the 1966 Extraordinary Session of the Legislature. This legislation allows State partici­pation in sharing of separable costs and as the operator of the recreation area. The legislation also provides for local partici­pation, if such participation is found to be desirable. A copy of the State's authorizing legislation, Senate Bill 26, as passed by the Legislature and signed by the Governor, is appended.
Contract Development
Concurrent with the preparation of this report, the lnteragency Task Force has been working toward the development of a draft contract for nonfederal participation in the recreational aspects of the Auburn-Folsom South Unit which wi11 fulfill the requirements of Public Law 89-161. The contract will provide for nonfederal capital cost sharing and for the subsequent operation and maintenance of the project by a nonfederal entity. Portions of this recreation report will be made an exhibit of the contract.
3
DESCRIPTION OF PROJECT AREA
Topography and Geology
The Auburn Reservoir area is located in the narrow, steeply-sided
canyons of the North and Middle Forks of the American River. Gently
sloping lands suitable for recreation development are not available
immediately adjacent to, or even at a reasonably close distance to,
the proposed high pool elevation. Lands contiguous to the proposed
reservoir water surface range from in excess of 30% slopes to nearly
vertical. However, by utilizing ridge tops and sidehill benches,
extensive recreation development can be provided.
Although no extensive geological explorations have been completed,
and will not be for several months, it is obvious that much of the
area consists of a thin mantle of soil over extensive limestone
deposits. Large limestone outcroppings occur on both the North
and Middle Forks of the river In the vicinity of their confluence
and extend back from the reservoir area for considerable distances.
Vegetative Cover
The canyon areas of the reservoir are sparsely forested by second
growth conifers such as Digger, Ponderosa and Jeffrey pine, some
fir and incense cedar.
The south and west slopes of the reservoir area are relatively open and are characterized by scattered plant material consisting
primarily of photinla, manzanita, California buckeye, ceonothus
and other chapparal-type vegetation. North and east slopes are more heavily covered with a variety of oaks, fir, redbud,
photinia and an occasional dogwood.
The Foresthill Divide area, between the two forks of the river, has three predominant types of vegetative cover. The lower two miles of the peninsula are covered primarily with a chapparal, which has re-established itself since the most recent burn. From
the burn area northeasterly for approximately four miles to­Driver's Flat (opposite the town of Applegate), a variety of oaks predominates the vegetative varieties. Above Driver's Flat
the vegetation consists primarily of conifers, predominantly Ponderosa pine.
Wildlife
A resident deer herd exists throughout the project area. Deer occur in moderate numbers on the eastern half of the area with a relatively dense population occurring alonq the western half where orchards and
4 permanent pastures provide an attraction. Moderate numbers of migratory deer winter on portions of the eastern side of the pro­ject area along both forks of the American River. California Valley quail are numerous on the western half of the project area and occur in scattered flocks throughout the remainder of the area. Band-tailed pigeons migrate into the area at various times and are usually numerous in the fall hunting season. Tree squirrels are found throughout the project area. Non-game wild­life of many species is abundant throughout the area in every season of the year.
Climate The climate of the reservoir area is typical of the low foothills of central California with cool, wet winters and hot, dry summers. During the recreation season, nights are generally cool and pleasant. Mornings are characterized by a cool southerly breeze which dies down about 10:00 a.m. Temperatures then climb rapidly to the 801s in late Hay and June and to the 90 1s in July and August. Auburn is above the normal winter fog line The absence of fog and the mild temperatures in the early spring and late fall could significantly extend the normal recreation season at this reservoir. Precipitation in the Auburn area consists primarily of rainfall and averages approximately 35 inches per year. A major portion of the precipitation occurs between November and April. Although snow occasionally falls in the higher elevations of the reservoir area, snow cover seldom persists for more than a day or two. The following chart gives an indication of average weather con­ditions in the City of Auburn.
CLIMATE ANO WEATHER
Temeerature
PreeieJtat ion
Period
Hin.
Hean
Max.
Inches
January
35.6
44.8
54.0
7.07
Apr i I
44.8
57. 1
69.4
3.03
July
60.9
77.8
94.6
T
October
49.5
63.4
77 .3
1. 73
Annual
47.3
60.4
73.5
35. 10
Water temperatures are expected to be similar to those occurring
in the deeper areas of Folsom Lake. The water at Folsom begins to warm rapidly in May and· soon reaches a comfortable temperature for swimming and other water contact activities.
5
During 1965, spot checks indicated the following water temperatures two feet below the surface at Folsom:
May 62.81 F June 67.98 F July 75.31 F August 79.54 F
Existing land Use
A major portion of the land falling within the limits of the Auburn Reservoir project has very little commercial value without the reservoir. The precipitous slopes of the canyons preclude the possibility of extensive residential developments and greatly diminish the potential for intensive agricultural uses. The lands above the canyons are currently used pdmarily for Jivestock grazing with some scattered orchards above the left abutment and below the dam. A small amount of logging takes place above Foresthi1J.
Exclusive of the deve1opments within the City of Auburn, the primary
industries which are proximal to the reservoir site and which
contribute greatly to the economy of the area are lumber mills in
Foresthill and Georgetown and an extensive limestone quarry operation
adjacent to Highway 49 above the Middle Fork of the river. Some
minor gold mining and panning still takes place along the upper
reaches of the canyons but does not represent an industry of signifi­cant
magnitude. However, recent discoveries of rich gold deposits
in the City of Auburn may provide the impetus for renewed interest
and activity in gold mining in the area.
Currently, there is much land speculation taking place around the
reservoir area and use patterns are rapidly changing to permanent
residential and seasonal homes. This pattern is increasingly
apparent on the Foresthi11 Divide and between Highway 80 and the
reservoir.
Access and Transportation
Excellent access is available to the North Fork Arm of Auburn Reservoir from Interstate Highway 80. Several interchanges exist
between Auburn at the lower end and Colfax at the upstream end of
the reservoir. State Highway 49 runs from Auburn into the American River Canyon, then to Cool and Placerville. The Foresthill Divide Road currently connects to Highway 49 near the confluence of the two
forks of the river. The Ponderosa and ShirtaiJ Canyon Roads provide
limited access to Foresthi11 from Highway 80. Access from ForesthilJ
to Georgetown did exist by way of the Oregon Bar Bridge across the Middle Fork but was destroyed by the floods of 1964 and has not been
replaced. Such replacement is essential to the successful develop­ment of recreation facilities in the Foresthi11 Divide. Portions of all the roads mentioned above, with the exception of Interstate 80, will be inundated by the reservoir and will require relocation or abandonment.
6 In order to complete the recreation plan, it was necessary to make
a number of assumptions regarding road relocations: Highway 49 to
cross on the crest of the dam; Ponderosa Way to be realigned and
improved with a new crossing over the North Fork; and a new road
and bridge to be constructed over the Middle Fork in the vicinity
of Rucka-Chucky Rapids to connect with the Georgetown Divide Road.
In addition to road access, there is an existing riding trail which runs from Auburn to Lake Tahoeo This trail presently crosses the American River on the abandoned railroad bridge below Highway 49 and runs up the canyon toward ForesthiJJ. A new trail crossing should be provided on the proposed dam and the existing trai1 relocated.
The City of Auburn lies on the main Southern Pacific Railroad line and is also served by the Greyhound Bus Lines. The Auburn Municipal Airport has facilities for private and charter planes. The nearest major airport, approximately 40 miles away in Sacramento, is served by coastal and transcontinental air lines.
History and Archeology
The major historical significance of the Auburn area is related
to the Mother Lode and the gold rush of 1849. Coloma, where gold
was first discovered, is located on Highway 49 approximately
12 airline miles southeast of Auburn. Many of the other small
communities in the area date their beginnings to the period around
1850.
With the subsequent decrease in profitable mining operations, the
large populations which had been attracted by the gold migrated to
other areas. The relatively few people remaining turned basically
towards agriculture and livestock for their livelihood.
The gold rush era left many colorful area names and legends in its wake. Some have been changed, forgotten, or clouded with age.
However, such titles as "Murderer's Bar", "Spanish Ory Diggings",
"Robbers Roost" and "Bars", "Ravines" and "Points" named after
states, nationalities and girls still remain as a reminder of that
colorful period.
To date, no extensive archeo1ogica1 exploration has taken place
in the reservoir area. However, it is known that several archeo­logically
significant areas of Indian habitation exist. It is a certainty that there are others within the Auburn Reservoir zone of influence. It is also anticipated that more valuable infor­mation about the gold rush period would accrue from a program of archeological and historical exploration and research.
The Bureau of Reclamation plans to provide the National Park Service with funds for additional archeological and historical surveys as we11 as salvage.
7 Fire History
The general area surrounding the reservoir has a long history of
frequent burn over. The most recent major burn occurred in 1964
and burned from the lower end of the Foresthi11 Divide to the edge of the City of Auburn. Fires initiating in the area have been difficult to control and are usually major in proportion.
Contributing factors have been the high canyon winds, low summer precipitation and humidity and the precipitous canyon slopes which
limit access to the fires by fire suppression crews and equipment. The severe burns have resulted in large expanses of heavy brush growth and extensively eroded areas. Some of the natural conditions which contribute to the severity of the burns will be considerably altered by the construction of the reservoir.
The U.S. Forest Service and the California Division of Forestry have studied the potential road relocation proposals with considerations for fire control access. The California Division of Forestry is currently examining preliminary recreation proposals to determine solutions to past and anticipated fire problems. An airstrip and other aerial facilities are being placed in the Georgetown area to facilitate aerial fire suppression activities. It is anticipated that with the change in natural conditions, the improvement of access roads and the increase in quantity and quality of fire suppression equipment, fire will be less of a problem than it has been in the past.
8 PROJECT DESCRIPTION
The Auburn-Folsom South Unit
The Auburn-Folsom South Unit, American River Division, Central Valley
Project, authorized by Public Law 89-161, provides for the further
development of the American River for purposes of water c~nservation,
flood control, hydroelectric power generation, recreation and fish
and wildlife enhancement. The authorized project includes three dams
and reservoirs, a canal and pipeline conveyance and distribution
system, a major hydroelectric plant, and lands and facilities for
recreation, fish and wildlife enhancement.
Major features of the project are illustrated on Plate 1.
The development furthest upstream in the American River drainage is
Sugar Pine Reservoir located on North Shirtail Canyon Creek about
five miles northeast of Foresthi11. This reservoir, along with a
conveyance system, wi11 serve municipal, industrial and irrigation
water to the area around Foresthill. It is planned that the recrea­tion
development on this feature will be provided by the U.S. Forest
Service as the reservoir area is for the most part within the external
boundary of the Tahoe National Forest.
Auburn Dam will be located about three miles downstream from the
confluence of the North and Middle Forks of the American River. The
dam will be located immediately south of the City of Auburn and will
actually be located within the upper reaches of the existing Folsom
Reservoir located on the main stem of the American River.
Water delivery to the service areas in the southern portion of
Sacramento County and northern San Joaquin County will be provided
through a canal, the Folsom South Canal, which will originate in
Lake Natoma and terminate in southern San Joaquin County about
15 miles southeast of Stockton. The portion of the canal from
Laguna Creek to Mormon Slough will be enlarged to convey future water supplies for the Bureau of Reclamation's East Side Division when
that project is approved.
A canal will also originate from Folsom Reservoir to serve the Malby area immediately south of Folsom Reservoir. The operation of this conduit will be coordinated with a proposed County Line Reservoir on Deer Creek on the Sacramento-El Dorado County line. County Line Reservoir, in addition to providing regulating storage, also will provide for flood control, recreation and fish and wildlife enhancement.
Other developments in the area, such as the potential atomic accel­erator being studied by the Atomic Energy Commission, may necessitate
revision of the plans for water distribution. However, the Bureau of
9 Reclamation cannot plan for these with sufficient accuracy until the scope of such projects Is adequately known.
Auburn Dam and Reservoir
Auburn Dam will be located immediately south of the City of Auburn. The dam will be a zoned earth-grave) fill structure rising 690 feet above the American River streambed. The reservoir will impound
2.5 million acre feet of water and at maximum operating level of 1,120 feet M.S.L. will cover approximately J0,390 acres. The perimeter of the reservoir at maximum operating pool will be 143 miles. Maximum water elevation, flood surcharge, will raise the maximum water level to 19 127.5 feet M.S.L. At monimum operating water level the reservour wi11 be at 796 feet M.S.L. and cover 3,250 acres. Additional project data are presented in Table I.
Auburn Reservoir will be operated for water conservation (municipal, industrial, and agricultural uses), hydreelectric power generation, flood control, recreation and fish and wildlife enhancement. The Bureau of Reclamation has provided an operation study of Auburn Reservoir based upon historic hydrologoc data. This operation study is shown graphically in Figure J.
Auburn Reservoir exhibits both annual and cyclical operation. Pool elevations vary from 1,120.0 (1,127.5 including surcharge) feet
M.S.L. to a minimum of 796 feet M.S.L. during the period of operation analyzed by the Bureau. The mean recreation season water surface elevation during the 30-year period analyzed is l,.0'32: feet or some 88 feet below operating pool elevation. Annual drawdown, from high to lower pool in any given year, will vary from a minimum of 22 feet to a maximum of 134 feet. The average annual drawdown, from maximum to minimum pool in a given year, is 68 feet. Most of the annual drawdown occurs during the recreation season--Apri1 1 through October 1.
The cyclical nature of the reservoir operation is vividly illustrated in Figure 1. When measured against the scale of cyclical operation 9 mean annual water level is:I.48 feet below maximum operating pool ( 1 , 120 feet) •
The reservoir area below maximum operating pool (elevation 1,120.0) will not be usable for recreation development unless submerglble or portable recreation facilittes can be provided. Further, it is currently planned to clear all vegetation from the reservoir between elevation 19 120 feet and 796 feet. Such vegetative removal will destroy important _fish habitats and will render these denuded areas undesirable for most types of recreation use. It is recommended that a vegetative clearing plan be developed which will take into account the potential adverse effects.
10 TABLE I
AUBURN DAM AND RESERVOIR l/
Gross capacity: 2,500,000 acre feet Inactive storage (power): 369,000 acre feet Active storage: 2,131,000 acre feet Dead storage·: 160,000 acre feet Flood control reserve: 450,000 acre feet Maximum water: Elevation 1,127.5 feet Normal water: Elevation 1,120 feet; 10,390 acres Minimum operating water: Elevation 796 feet; 3,250 acres
1/ Based on studies made to establish the feasibility of the project. Detailed design studies may modify these data.
-DamType: Zoned earth, gravel, rock, cobbles Height above streambed: 690 feet Volume of embankment: 63 million cubic yards Thickness, toe to heel: 5,000 feet Slope, upstream: 5~:l, 4~:l, 3~:l, 3:1 Slope, downstream: 5 : 1, 4 : 1 , 3 : 1 , 2~: 1 Crest elevation: 1,137 feet Crest width: 40 feet Crest length: 3,200 feet Diversion tunnel: D-50 feet; L-6,000 feet Penstock: One, D-24 feet Outlet: One, D-72 inches Spillway: Concrete chute, right abutment Spillway control: By 4 -40' x 42.5' radial gate Spillway maximum quantity: 200,000 cubic feet per second
Reservoir
l l

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AUBURN -FOLSOM
RECREATION PLAN
THE AUBURN -FOLSOM INTERAGENCY TASK FORCE
Fred L. Jones, Chairman
William E. Warne Walter Shannon Robert Pafford
. October 1966 PLANNING S T A F F
STATE OF CALIFORNIA
Department of Parks and Recreation
Stanley Thompson Ronald Cooksy Glen Jackson George. Fogg Marjorie Nowell Holt John Hightower
Department of Water Resources
Guy Fairchild Norman Sturm Sam Scicch·itano
Department of Fish and Game
Jack Fraser Ted Vande Sande
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR Bureau of Reclamation Lloyd Stennett Lawrence Ehrhardt Vaughn Bishop George Medlicott National Park Service Ed Bullard
Solicitor's Office Joe Taylor T A B L E 0 F C O N T E N T S
PREFACE • • • • • • • • • • . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . SUMMARY AND RECOMMENDATIONS • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Iii INTRODUCTION Authorization •••• Purpose of Report .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2' Scope • • • • • • • • • • • . • • • • • • • • • • • • • • 2 Coordination•••••••••••••••••••••• 3 Contract Development •••••••••••••••••• 3 DESCRIPTION OF PROJECT AREA Topography and Geology •••••••••••••••• 4 Vegetative Cover •. ~ ..•.•••••••••••••••• 4 Wt 1 d 1 ife ., .. • · .. . . . ... .,. • • • • • • • • • • • • 4 Climate •••••••. , . ~ • • • • • • • • • • • • 65 Existing Land Use ••••• Access . • • • . • • • and Transportation. . . . . . • . • . • . • . 0 . • . • . • 66 History and Archeology ••• e • 0 f • • e 0 7Fire History •••••••• • e O a O • 0 • 0 0 e e • •8 PROJECT DESCRIPTION The Auburn-Folsom South Unit. • • • • • • • • • • • • • 9 Auburn Dam and Reservoir. • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • JO Fo1som Reservoir and Lake Natoma. . • • • . . • • . • • 13 RECREATION DEMAND Present Recreation Use. • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • 17 Recreation Use with the Auburn-Folsom South Project • • 17 Recreation Facility Deficiencies. • • • • • • • • • • • 20 Current Five-Year Programs. • • • • • • • • • • • • • • 20 T A B L E 0 F C O N T E N T S (cont'd)
PROPOSED RECREATION DEVELOPMENT Folsom Lake State Recreation Area (Lake Natoma and Folsom Reservoir) • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • 30 Lake Natoma • • • • • • • • • • • • • ,. • • • • • • • • 30 Fo1som Lake • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • 30 Auburn Reservoir. • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • 31 Development Costs. • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • 33 Management Plan. • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • 33 NONFEDERAL COST SHARING Repayment Analysis (Separable Costs) .• , •••••• . . 36 Estimated Revenues ••••••••••••••••• . . 40 Operation and Malntenance ••••••••••••• . . 41 Replacement ••••••••••••••••••• , 41 APPENDICES Public Law 89-161 • . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . A-1 Public Law 89-72 •• . . . . . . . . . . Senate Bill 26 ••• . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-6 . . . . . . . . A-13 P R E F A C E
The recreation planning studies outlined in this report have been
prepared by the Auburn-Folsom lnteragency Task Force which was
formed in January of 1966. The potential plans and findings are
based upon preliminary data available to the task force as of
August 1966. The task force has been faced with a unique problem;
that of preparing a report that will assist State executives in
determining the State's position relative to administering recrea­tion
facilities at Auburn Reservoir, as well as preparing a plan
for recreation to be incorporated in a cost-sharing contract which
can be approved by the Secretary of the interior as provided for
in Public Law 89-161.
Folsom Lake State Recreation Area, together with the proposed recreation area at Auburn Reservoir, can supply recreation oppor­tunities for 15,000,000 visitor days of use when developed to optimum capacity. Based upon preliminary data available as of August 1966, the task force determined the approximate area of land needed to accommodate the visitation that will be attracted to the area. It has examined the problem of associating recreatfon facilities with the water surface in a difficult terrain situation and has evolved a concept that may become the prototype for similar developments at future reservoirs in like terrain. The task force has studied the needs for borrow material and suggested solutions least detrimental to the convnunity, but which have a potential for recreation development. It has stressed the location of facilities for both recreation and fish and wildlife enhancement that make the greatest practical use of public lands and take the least amount of private land.
However, there remain to be made a number of important deter­minations which will bear upon the recreational potential of the Auburn-Folsom Reservoir area and upon its operation as a useful addition to the State 1 s recreation resources. There are a number of subjects in question: The role that Placer and El Dorado Counties will play in the development and/or operation of the
recreational aspects of the project; the location and relocation of roads necessary to serve the area; the location of borrow areas for project construction; specific information regarding the
location of land acquisition for project purposes other than
recreation including lands to be purchased for mitigation of wildlife losses; and a number of other questions which remain unanswered at this time. PREFACE (Cont'd)
It is the intent of the task force to re-evaluate the recreation
plan presented herein after these questions have been answered
and, in any event, prior to the initiation of the construction
of recreation facilities at Auburn Reservoir. The re-evaluation
should be done in conjunction with detailing the plan for
recreational development.
The latest information available indicates that Auburn Reservoir will not be completed until 1977, some eleven years from now. The construction of recreation facilities at Auburn will probably not
be initiated until at least 1974. The re-evaluation of the plan will have the added advantage of allowing an updated view of.the State's rapidly changing recreation requirements based upon know­ledge
of these requirements gained through the next few years.
Fewer questions are involved in the proposals for Folsom Reservoir, as the proposals for that reservoir represent an expansion of an existing State Recreation Area and modification of the project area will be minor. Since Lake Natoma is an integral part of Folsom Lake State Recreation Area, al I references in this report to Folsom also include Lake Natoma.
i i S U M M A R Y A N D R E C O M M E N D A T I O N S
Summary
The Auburn-Folsom South Unit of the Federal Central Valley Project
provides for the further development of water in the American River
Basin. This report deals with the recreation potential of Auburn
Reservoir, the central feature of the unit, and with the further
development of Folsom Lake State Recreation Area which is affected
by the construction of the Auburn-Folsom South Unit.
The proposed Auburn Reservoir, while difficult to develop for
recreation because of adverse terrain, can be developed to provide
considerable recreation potential. The operation of Auburn for
purposes of municipal and industrial water supply, irrigation, flood
control and hydroelectric power generation will enhance Folsom
Reservoir by stabilizing th~ water level in that reservoir. Folsom
Reservoir, which by nature of the surrounding terrain is much more
developable than Auburn, represents the greatest potential for
recreation development.
In order for the recreation and fish and wildlife enhancement
potential of the project to be fully realized, it will be necessary
for a nonfederal interest to:
1.
Pay or repay one-half of the separable costs of developing recreation and fish and wildlife enhancement.
2.
Assume the full responsibility for operating and maintaining the area for these purposes.
A plan of recreational development is presented which will satisfy
the basic recreation requirements at the project. This plan
involves acquisition of lands for optimum predicted recreation use and construction of recreation facilities at Auburn and Folsom Reservoirs at an estimated cost of $16,746,600. The State's current
investment in recreation lands and facilities at Folsom Lake State Recreation Area amounts to $5,223,602. These facilities will become a part of the project and credit will be allowed to the State on the
basis of current market value. The balance of the State's share will be repaid by the dedication of user fees.
Sufficient land acquisition is proposed as a part of this project to satisfy the optimum predicted recreation use of 15,000,000 visitor days per year at Auburn and Folsom Lake State Recreation Area. The basic development plan provides for the construction of new recreation facilities to accommodate the predicted recreation visitation through
iii
the first ten years of project operation, taking into account visitors who do not require facilities--sightseers, and other "informal" users of the area.
No facilities were considered for fish and wildlife enhancement. The California Department of Fish and Game and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service are developing an enhancement plan for the project at this time. The relationship of the management of the wildlife mitigation lands to the operation of the recreation project was also not considered.
An analysis of costs and repayment is presented. This analysis indicates that user fees collected at the project will repay the State's share of separable costs of recreation development proposed in the plan.
Recommendations
It is recommended that:
1.
Folsom Lake State Recreation Area be considered as an integral part of the Auburn-Folsom South Unit.
2.
This recreation plan outlined for the project be adopted and that the recreation lands and facilities recommended be provided.
3.
The plan be reviewed and modified, if necessary, prior to the initiation of construction of recrea­Uon faci 1it es.
4.
Provision be made to relocate a11 the existing riding and hiking trails which will be inundated by the construction of Auburn Reservoir.
5.
The State incorporate Auburn Reservoir into the State Park System. This assumes that an equitable contract can be negotiated for recreation project repayment and for operation and maintenance of the recreation facilities.
6.
The land acquisition and facilities development recommended at Folsom Reservoir be provided prior to the completion of the Auburn Reservoir.
iv
INTRODUCTION
Authorization
Public Law 89-161, enacted by the United States Congress in 1965, authorizes the Bureau of Reclamation to construct the Auburn-Folsom South Unit of the Central Valley Project. The legislation contains language which requires nonfederal participation in the recreation and fish and wildlife enhancement features of the unit in order for these purposes to be fully developed as project purposes. Such nonfederal participation includes:
1.
Full responsibility for the operation, mainte­nance and replacement of recreation and/or fish and wildlife enhancement facilities of the project.
2.
Payment or repayment of one-half of the separable capital costs of developing recreation and/or fish and wildlife enhancement facilities as a part of the project.
The fish and wildlife considerations are not dea1t with in depth
in this report since the California Department of Fish and Game is preparing separate comments related specifically to this subject.
The provisions of the Auburn-Folsom South authorization dealing with nonfederal participation are similar to Public Law 89-72, the Federal Water Project Recreation Act. Copies of both Public Law 89-161 and 89-72 are appended to this report.
Following congressional authorization of the Auburn-Folsom South Unit, the Bureau, late in 1965, contacted the State as a possible nonfederal participant in the project. In January 1966, an
interagency task force was formed made up of the directors of the Departments of Parks and Recreation, Water Resources and Fish and Game and the Federal Bureau of Reclamation, Region 2. The task force was charged with developing a recreation plan, analyzing the State's position relative to this project and developing a repayment and operation contract between the State and Federal Government which will provide for the full realization of the recreation, fish and wildlife enhancement features of the proposed project. A staff planning task force, under the chairmanship of Fred L. Jones, Director of the Department of Parks and Recreation, and with representatives of each of the agencies on the parent task force and the National Park Service, was established to compile this report. Purpose of Report
In May of 1963, the State of California reviewed the Bureau of
Reclamation Feasibility Report on the Auburn-Folsom South Unit.
Since that time there have been a number of project modifications
proposed, not the least of which is that promulgated in the
authorizing legislation relating to nonfederal cost sharing.
Following authorization of the project under the criteria of
Public Law 89-161, the Bureau of Reclamation has turned to the
State as a possible nonfederal participant in the recreation and
fish and wildlife enhancement features of the project.
This report has been developed to document the State's position
relative to nonfedera1 participation. This has been accomplished
by:
1.
Thorough review of the Bureau of Reclamation Feasibility Report (House Document 171) dated October 22, 1963, along with the supporting reports of the National Park Service, dated March 1963, and the Fish and Wildlife Service, dated January 1963.
2.
Updating of the estimates of use and/or develop­ment needs based upon more up-to-date information.
3.
Evolution of a recreation plan which will best serve the recreation needs of the State of California.
The plan contains both development and operational needs relating
to the Auburn-Folsom South Unit and will, consequently, serve as
the basis for a possible contract between the State and Federal Government.
Scope
Although the Auburn-Folsom South Unit consists of a series of water conservation and distribution facilities, as described fn a
subsequent section, this report is limited to consideration of the major project feature, Auburn Dam and Reservoir, and its considerable affect upon the recreation opportunities afforded at Folsom Reservoir and Lake Natoma. Study of the recreation opportunity afforded by other project features (Sugar Pine and County Line Reservoirs) has been postponed in deference to the immediate urgency of considering the Auburn Reservoir complex.
The descriptive material outlined in this report applies primarily to the Auburn Dam and Reservoir site--the new feature of the project. Folsom Dam and Reservoir and Nimbus Dam and Lake Natoma, located on
2 the American River below the proposed Auburn project, represent an
existing and major recreational potential which has been partially
developed by the State as Folsom Lake State Recreation Area.
Additional development is necessary and recommended in order to fully
develop this potential as a part of the Auburn-Folsom South Unit.
The details of the fish and wildlife enhancement aspects of the project will be considered in the development of a Reservoir Management Plan.
Coordination
Coordination of the current recreation planning effort has been carried on by several means. The number of agencies involved and the rather tight time schedule has required that most of the coordination be through the use of committees and task forces. The Auburn-Folsom lnteragency Task Force has served as a mechanism for coordinating State and federal interests. Individual contact with the Bi-County Auburn Dam Committee has served to keep the local interests in the project apprised of our plans. The counties of Placer and El Dorado have expressed an active interest in the project and have participated in the planning phases leading to this report. The counties have expressed a further interest in possible recreation operations as subcontractors to the State in connection with the project. The counties and the City of Auburn have jointly employed a consultant to assist them in determining the type of recreation operation most favorable to the local interests. The result of the local studies are not now available for inclusion in this report. However, even though the State may enter into a contract with the Federal Govern­ment as the nonfedera1 participant, it is the State's intent to encourage local participation in the project to the extent feasible.
In order to permit State involvement in the project as the nonfederal participant, legislation was introduced in the 1966 Extraordinary Session of the Legislature. This legislation allows State partici­pation in sharing of separable costs and as the operator of the recreation area. The legislation also provides for local partici­pation, if such participation is found to be desirable. A copy of the State's authorizing legislation, Senate Bill 26, as passed by the Legislature and signed by the Governor, is appended.
Contract Development
Concurrent with the preparation of this report, the lnteragency Task Force has been working toward the development of a draft contract for nonfederal participation in the recreational aspects of the Auburn-Folsom South Unit which wi11 fulfill the requirements of Public Law 89-161. The contract will provide for nonfederal capital cost sharing and for the subsequent operation and maintenance of the project by a nonfederal entity. Portions of this recreation report will be made an exhibit of the contract.
3
DESCRIPTION OF PROJECT AREA
Topography and Geology
The Auburn Reservoir area is located in the narrow, steeply-sided
canyons of the North and Middle Forks of the American River. Gently
sloping lands suitable for recreation development are not available
immediately adjacent to, or even at a reasonably close distance to,
the proposed high pool elevation. Lands contiguous to the proposed
reservoir water surface range from in excess of 30% slopes to nearly
vertical. However, by utilizing ridge tops and sidehill benches,
extensive recreation development can be provided.
Although no extensive geological explorations have been completed,
and will not be for several months, it is obvious that much of the
area consists of a thin mantle of soil over extensive limestone
deposits. Large limestone outcroppings occur on both the North
and Middle Forks of the river In the vicinity of their confluence
and extend back from the reservoir area for considerable distances.
Vegetative Cover
The canyon areas of the reservoir are sparsely forested by second
growth conifers such as Digger, Ponderosa and Jeffrey pine, some
fir and incense cedar.
The south and west slopes of the reservoir area are relatively open and are characterized by scattered plant material consisting
primarily of photinla, manzanita, California buckeye, ceonothus
and other chapparal-type vegetation. North and east slopes are more heavily covered with a variety of oaks, fir, redbud,
photinia and an occasional dogwood.
The Foresthill Divide area, between the two forks of the river, has three predominant types of vegetative cover. The lower two miles of the peninsula are covered primarily with a chapparal, which has re-established itself since the most recent burn. From
the burn area northeasterly for approximately four miles to­Driver's Flat (opposite the town of Applegate), a variety of oaks predominates the vegetative varieties. Above Driver's Flat
the vegetation consists primarily of conifers, predominantly Ponderosa pine.
Wildlife
A resident deer herd exists throughout the project area. Deer occur in moderate numbers on the eastern half of the area with a relatively dense population occurring alonq the western half where orchards and
4 permanent pastures provide an attraction. Moderate numbers of migratory deer winter on portions of the eastern side of the pro­ject area along both forks of the American River. California Valley quail are numerous on the western half of the project area and occur in scattered flocks throughout the remainder of the area. Band-tailed pigeons migrate into the area at various times and are usually numerous in the fall hunting season. Tree squirrels are found throughout the project area. Non-game wild­life of many species is abundant throughout the area in every season of the year.
Climate The climate of the reservoir area is typical of the low foothills of central California with cool, wet winters and hot, dry summers. During the recreation season, nights are generally cool and pleasant. Mornings are characterized by a cool southerly breeze which dies down about 10:00 a.m. Temperatures then climb rapidly to the 801s in late Hay and June and to the 90 1s in July and August. Auburn is above the normal winter fog line The absence of fog and the mild temperatures in the early spring and late fall could significantly extend the normal recreation season at this reservoir. Precipitation in the Auburn area consists primarily of rainfall and averages approximately 35 inches per year. A major portion of the precipitation occurs between November and April. Although snow occasionally falls in the higher elevations of the reservoir area, snow cover seldom persists for more than a day or two. The following chart gives an indication of average weather con­ditions in the City of Auburn.
CLIMATE ANO WEATHER
Temeerature
PreeieJtat ion
Period
Hin.
Hean
Max.
Inches
January
35.6
44.8
54.0
7.07
Apr i I
44.8
57. 1
69.4
3.03
July
60.9
77.8
94.6
T
October
49.5
63.4
77 .3
1. 73
Annual
47.3
60.4
73.5
35. 10
Water temperatures are expected to be similar to those occurring
in the deeper areas of Folsom Lake. The water at Folsom begins to warm rapidly in May and· soon reaches a comfortable temperature for swimming and other water contact activities.
5
During 1965, spot checks indicated the following water temperatures two feet below the surface at Folsom:
May 62.81 F June 67.98 F July 75.31 F August 79.54 F
Existing land Use
A major portion of the land falling within the limits of the Auburn Reservoir project has very little commercial value without the reservoir. The precipitous slopes of the canyons preclude the possibility of extensive residential developments and greatly diminish the potential for intensive agricultural uses. The lands above the canyons are currently used pdmarily for Jivestock grazing with some scattered orchards above the left abutment and below the dam. A small amount of logging takes place above Foresthi1J.
Exclusive of the deve1opments within the City of Auburn, the primary
industries which are proximal to the reservoir site and which
contribute greatly to the economy of the area are lumber mills in
Foresthill and Georgetown and an extensive limestone quarry operation
adjacent to Highway 49 above the Middle Fork of the river. Some
minor gold mining and panning still takes place along the upper
reaches of the canyons but does not represent an industry of signifi­cant
magnitude. However, recent discoveries of rich gold deposits
in the City of Auburn may provide the impetus for renewed interest
and activity in gold mining in the area.
Currently, there is much land speculation taking place around the
reservoir area and use patterns are rapidly changing to permanent
residential and seasonal homes. This pattern is increasingly
apparent on the Foresthi11 Divide and between Highway 80 and the
reservoir.
Access and Transportation
Excellent access is available to the North Fork Arm of Auburn Reservoir from Interstate Highway 80. Several interchanges exist
between Auburn at the lower end and Colfax at the upstream end of
the reservoir. State Highway 49 runs from Auburn into the American River Canyon, then to Cool and Placerville. The Foresthill Divide Road currently connects to Highway 49 near the confluence of the two
forks of the river. The Ponderosa and ShirtaiJ Canyon Roads provide
limited access to Foresthi11 from Highway 80. Access from ForesthilJ
to Georgetown did exist by way of the Oregon Bar Bridge across the Middle Fork but was destroyed by the floods of 1964 and has not been
replaced. Such replacement is essential to the successful develop­ment of recreation facilities in the Foresthi11 Divide. Portions of all the roads mentioned above, with the exception of Interstate 80, will be inundated by the reservoir and will require relocation or abandonment.
6 In order to complete the recreation plan, it was necessary to make
a number of assumptions regarding road relocations: Highway 49 to
cross on the crest of the dam; Ponderosa Way to be realigned and
improved with a new crossing over the North Fork; and a new road
and bridge to be constructed over the Middle Fork in the vicinity
of Rucka-Chucky Rapids to connect with the Georgetown Divide Road.
In addition to road access, there is an existing riding trail which runs from Auburn to Lake Tahoeo This trail presently crosses the American River on the abandoned railroad bridge below Highway 49 and runs up the canyon toward ForesthiJJ. A new trail crossing should be provided on the proposed dam and the existing trai1 relocated.
The City of Auburn lies on the main Southern Pacific Railroad line and is also served by the Greyhound Bus Lines. The Auburn Municipal Airport has facilities for private and charter planes. The nearest major airport, approximately 40 miles away in Sacramento, is served by coastal and transcontinental air lines.
History and Archeology
The major historical significance of the Auburn area is related
to the Mother Lode and the gold rush of 1849. Coloma, where gold
was first discovered, is located on Highway 49 approximately
12 airline miles southeast of Auburn. Many of the other small
communities in the area date their beginnings to the period around
1850.
With the subsequent decrease in profitable mining operations, the
large populations which had been attracted by the gold migrated to
other areas. The relatively few people remaining turned basically
towards agriculture and livestock for their livelihood.
The gold rush era left many colorful area names and legends in its wake. Some have been changed, forgotten, or clouded with age.
However, such titles as "Murderer's Bar", "Spanish Ory Diggings",
"Robbers Roost" and "Bars", "Ravines" and "Points" named after
states, nationalities and girls still remain as a reminder of that
colorful period.
To date, no extensive archeo1ogica1 exploration has taken place
in the reservoir area. However, it is known that several archeo­logically
significant areas of Indian habitation exist. It is a certainty that there are others within the Auburn Reservoir zone of influence. It is also anticipated that more valuable infor­mation about the gold rush period would accrue from a program of archeological and historical exploration and research.
The Bureau of Reclamation plans to provide the National Park Service with funds for additional archeological and historical surveys as we11 as salvage.
7 Fire History
The general area surrounding the reservoir has a long history of
frequent burn over. The most recent major burn occurred in 1964
and burned from the lower end of the Foresthi11 Divide to the edge of the City of Auburn. Fires initiating in the area have been difficult to control and are usually major in proportion.
Contributing factors have been the high canyon winds, low summer precipitation and humidity and the precipitous canyon slopes which
limit access to the fires by fire suppression crews and equipment. The severe burns have resulted in large expanses of heavy brush growth and extensively eroded areas. Some of the natural conditions which contribute to the severity of the burns will be considerably altered by the construction of the reservoir.
The U.S. Forest Service and the California Division of Forestry have studied the potential road relocation proposals with considerations for fire control access. The California Division of Forestry is currently examining preliminary recreation proposals to determine solutions to past and anticipated fire problems. An airstrip and other aerial facilities are being placed in the Georgetown area to facilitate aerial fire suppression activities. It is anticipated that with the change in natural conditions, the improvement of access roads and the increase in quantity and quality of fire suppression equipment, fire will be less of a problem than it has been in the past.
8 PROJECT DESCRIPTION
The Auburn-Folsom South Unit
The Auburn-Folsom South Unit, American River Division, Central Valley
Project, authorized by Public Law 89-161, provides for the further
development of the American River for purposes of water c~nservation,
flood control, hydroelectric power generation, recreation and fish
and wildlife enhancement. The authorized project includes three dams
and reservoirs, a canal and pipeline conveyance and distribution
system, a major hydroelectric plant, and lands and facilities for
recreation, fish and wildlife enhancement.
Major features of the project are illustrated on Plate 1.
The development furthest upstream in the American River drainage is
Sugar Pine Reservoir located on North Shirtail Canyon Creek about
five miles northeast of Foresthi11. This reservoir, along with a
conveyance system, wi11 serve municipal, industrial and irrigation
water to the area around Foresthill. It is planned that the recrea­tion
development on this feature will be provided by the U.S. Forest
Service as the reservoir area is for the most part within the external
boundary of the Tahoe National Forest.
Auburn Dam will be located about three miles downstream from the
confluence of the North and Middle Forks of the American River. The
dam will be located immediately south of the City of Auburn and will
actually be located within the upper reaches of the existing Folsom
Reservoir located on the main stem of the American River.
Water delivery to the service areas in the southern portion of
Sacramento County and northern San Joaquin County will be provided
through a canal, the Folsom South Canal, which will originate in
Lake Natoma and terminate in southern San Joaquin County about
15 miles southeast of Stockton. The portion of the canal from
Laguna Creek to Mormon Slough will be enlarged to convey future water supplies for the Bureau of Reclamation's East Side Division when
that project is approved.
A canal will also originate from Folsom Reservoir to serve the Malby area immediately south of Folsom Reservoir. The operation of this conduit will be coordinated with a proposed County Line Reservoir on Deer Creek on the Sacramento-El Dorado County line. County Line Reservoir, in addition to providing regulating storage, also will provide for flood control, recreation and fish and wildlife enhancement.
Other developments in the area, such as the potential atomic accel­erator being studied by the Atomic Energy Commission, may necessitate
revision of the plans for water distribution. However, the Bureau of
9 Reclamation cannot plan for these with sufficient accuracy until the scope of such projects Is adequately known.
Auburn Dam and Reservoir
Auburn Dam will be located immediately south of the City of Auburn. The dam will be a zoned earth-grave) fill structure rising 690 feet above the American River streambed. The reservoir will impound
2.5 million acre feet of water and at maximum operating level of 1,120 feet M.S.L. will cover approximately J0,390 acres. The perimeter of the reservoir at maximum operating pool will be 143 miles. Maximum water elevation, flood surcharge, will raise the maximum water level to 19 127.5 feet M.S.L. At monimum operating water level the reservour wi11 be at 796 feet M.S.L. and cover 3,250 acres. Additional project data are presented in Table I.
Auburn Reservoir will be operated for water conservation (municipal, industrial, and agricultural uses), hydreelectric power generation, flood control, recreation and fish and wildlife enhancement. The Bureau of Reclamation has provided an operation study of Auburn Reservoir based upon historic hydrologoc data. This operation study is shown graphically in Figure J.
Auburn Reservoir exhibits both annual and cyclical operation. Pool elevations vary from 1,120.0 (1,127.5 including surcharge) feet
M.S.L. to a minimum of 796 feet M.S.L. during the period of operation analyzed by the Bureau. The mean recreation season water surface elevation during the 30-year period analyzed is l,.0'32: feet or some 88 feet below operating pool elevation. Annual drawdown, from high to lower pool in any given year, will vary from a minimum of 22 feet to a maximum of 134 feet. The average annual drawdown, from maximum to minimum pool in a given year, is 68 feet. Most of the annual drawdown occurs during the recreation season--Apri1 1 through October 1.
The cyclical nature of the reservoir operation is vividly illustrated in Figure 1. When measured against the scale of cyclical operation 9 mean annual water level is:I.48 feet below maximum operating pool ( 1 , 120 feet) •
The reservoir area below maximum operating pool (elevation 1,120.0) will not be usable for recreation development unless submerglble or portable recreation facilittes can be provided. Further, it is currently planned to clear all vegetation from the reservoir between elevation 19 120 feet and 796 feet. Such vegetative removal will destroy important _fish habitats and will render these denuded areas undesirable for most types of recreation use. It is recommended that a vegetative clearing plan be developed which will take into account the potential adverse effects.
10 TABLE I
AUBURN DAM AND RESERVOIR l/
Gross capacity: 2,500,000 acre feet Inactive storage (power): 369,000 acre feet Active storage: 2,131,000 acre feet Dead storage·: 160,000 acre feet Flood control reserve: 450,000 acre feet Maximum water: Elevation 1,127.5 feet Normal water: Elevation 1,120 feet; 10,390 acres Minimum operating water: Elevation 796 feet; 3,250 acres
1/ Based on studies made to establish the feasibility of the project. Detailed design studies may modify these data.
-DamType: Zoned earth, gravel, rock, cobbles Height above streambed: 690 feet Volume of embankment: 63 million cubic yards Thickness, toe to heel: 5,000 feet Slope, upstream: 5~:l, 4~:l, 3~:l, 3:1 Slope, downstream: 5 : 1, 4 : 1 , 3 : 1 , 2~: 1 Crest elevation: 1,137 feet Crest width: 40 feet Crest length: 3,200 feet Diversion tunnel: D-50 feet; L-6,000 feet Penstock: One, D-24 feet Outlet: One, D-72 inches Spillway: Concrete chute, right abutment Spillway control: By 4 -40' x 42.5' radial gate Spillway maximum quantity: 200,000 cubic feet per second
Reservoir
l l